Each year, Sachamama celebrates Latino leaders whose work is transforming the trajectory of our planet. The 2025 honorees represent advocates, innovators, and community champions driving progress toward a just, resilient, and sustainable future. This initiative amplifies critical conversations around a just transition, climate financing, adaptation strategies, and the essential leadership Latinos bring to addressing the climate crisis.

“I am honored to be recognized alongside so many dedicated climate leaders, but the real work is collective. Our vision at Hispanic Access is that Latino communities have the power and resources to safeguard land and water, improve public health, and shape the policies that define our shared future,” said Maite Arce, CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation. “We work with partners who invest in community-led, science-informed, and equity-centered conservation, and together we are building long-term climate solutions—rooted in culture, heritage, and local knowledge—that make our communities and ecosystems more resilient for decades to come.”

Hispanic Access Foundation’s conservation work reflects a deep belief in the expertise, cultural heritage, and leadership of Latino communities. Through its national conservation initiatives, the organization empowers local advocates, faith leaders, and emerging youth leaders to protect natural resources, strengthen climate resilience, and expand equitable access to the outdoors.

Signature efforts such as the Por la Creación Faith-based Alliance foster meaningful connections to nature through culturally resonant programming that uplifts youth, families, and faith communities. Latino Conservation Week, one of the nation’s largest Latino-led environmental initiatives, mobilizes tens of thousands of participants each year — elevating community-led advocacy, expanding environmental education, and supporting the Latino community connecting with the outdoors and participating in activities to protect our natural resources.

By honoring leaders like Maite Arce, Sachamama underscores the essential role Latino communities play in climate leadership, driving bold action, shaping innovative solutions, and ensuring that climate justice remains at the heart of global environmental progress.

For the full list of 2025 honorees, visit Sachamama at: https://sachamama.org/los-100-latinos-2025/.